How To Master Field Shooting Positions

0

At GunDigest, we independently review products. However, we may earn a commission when you purchase through links on our site. Read our affiliate policy. Read about how we test products.

How To Master Field Shooting Positions

Shooting-Positions-5MM

When preparing for hunting season, it’s important to practice field shooting positions that replicate real-world scenarios.

Most North American big game hunting doesn’t afford you the opportunity to use a bench rest or even shoot from the prone position, so it’s critical that you become proficient at shooting from the standing, kneeling and sitting positions.

When performed correctly, the sitting position can be one of the more comfortable and easy to master in the field.

First, cross your feet and bend your legs, lowering yourself steadily to the ground. As you do so, place your right hand on the ground while keeping the rifle in your left as you come to a seated position.

If you’re physically able, crossing your legs at the ankle provides additional support; if you lack the flexibility to do so, you can adapt a position with your feet spread on the ground in front of you.

Leaning forward, place the backs of your arms against the front of your shins to create a natural sandbag-like rest with your body.

Avoid the common mistake of placing your elbows on the tops of your knees, since the bone-on-bone contact makes for an unstable shooting platform.

Since big game hunting often requires that you use slow, steady movements when approaching game for a shot, it’s important that you’re comfortable getting in and out of your preferred field shooting positions. Like everything else in life, practice makes perfect.

44-Targetposters-pack-GD-reduced-300

Next Step: Get your FREE Printable Target Pack

Enhance your shooting precision with our 62 MOA Targets, perfect for rifles and handguns. Crafted in collaboration with Storm Tactical for accuracy and versatility.

Subscribe to the Gun Digest email newsletter and get your downloadable target pack sent straight to your inbox. Stay updated with the latest firearms info in the industry.

Why You Can Trust Gun Digest


Since 1944, Gun Digest has been a trusted authority on firearms, shooting and shooting gear, delivering expert firearms reviews backed by nearly a century of experience. We go beyond standard reviews, combining hands-on independent gun testing, in-depth research, and expert insights from industry professionals and manufacturers.

Our reviewers are the bedrock of our testing and come from a comprehensive cross section of the shooting world. Their diverse backgrounds include law enforcement professionals, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and life-long firearms enthusiasts. In addition to being firearm experts, we are also thorough journalists adhering to the strictest standards of the profession.

For our readers, this means objective, unbiased reviews, free from outside influence. Our priority is to provide the information you need to make informed decisions—whether a firearm or piece of gear is a must-have investment or one to pass on.

Find out more about our Editorial Standards and Evaluation Process

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.